OPINION
I am really looking forward to Matariki Day. Sure, a day off work is nice – but this feels like more. This is a day I want to recognise, learn more about and celebrate.
I have never felt like that about Waitangi Day, and that's okay. The tensions around Waitangi Day are real and bringing those tensions out and being able to recognise them, understand them and then do something about them in settling Treaty claims is part of our recent history that I am proud of. The violent protests have been completely unacceptable but are not the only reason that I don't look at Waitangi Day as a day to recognise and celebrate New Zealand.
Matariki Day feels, and is different. Matariki is a special occasion in Aotearoa which marks the start of the Māori New Year. Signified by the Matariki cluster of stars reappearing in our night sky, this is a time to reflect on the past year, celebrate the present, and plan for the year ahead. It doesn't come with baggage and disagreement. I am going to treat it like our own "thanksgiving" and be grateful for all that I have and the country I live in. I will also take the opportunity to learn more about Matariki and work on my te reo pronunciation as well. I hope all New Zealanders see it like this and it is not hijacked for something for expressing grievances.